The release of Stanzas from the Bronze Capital marks a luminous chapter in Nigerian literature—a first for Edo State. This pioneering anthology gathers vibrant poetic voices that celebrate heritage, challenge societal norms, and honour the enduring majesty of the Oba of Benin.
Birthed through the creative partnership of Naija Poetry Fest, convened by Godson Osarenren and the Benin Writers Society, founded by Douglas Ogbankwa, the anthology serves as a bridge between tradition and modernity. It offers poets a platform where ancestral pride converses with contemporary realities.
The foreword, penned by Eriata Oribhabor, President of the Poets in Nigeria Initiative and author of Crossroads and The Rubicon, sets the tone for the anthology’s depth. The editorial work, steered by Lanre Sonde and Godson Osarenren, shaped its 109 pages into a resonant body of work.
“To walk with poets who embody both the memory of our past and the urgency of our present is a rare gift. This anthology is more than words on paper; it is a living testament to Edo’s voice and vision.”
— Lanre Sonde.
The anthology reveres the Oba of Benin, whose reign stands as a symbol of justice, wisdom, and cultural pride. In his honour, the collection resounds with the timeless invocation: “Oba gha to kpere, Ise!”
Every stanza carries echoes of Benin’s soul, the bustling rhythm of her markets, the pulse of ancestral drums, and the resilience etched into her people’s stories. At the same time, the voices confront present-day realities, unflinching in their reflections on governance, identity, and survival.
This landmark anthology is not just a book. It is a cultural monument. As enduring as bronze and as vital as breath, it anchors Edo’s literary heritage within the broader Nigerian narrative.
Oba gha to kpere, Ise!